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Cape Cod Chips, a cherished local favorite since its founding by brothers Steve and Jude Bernard in 1980, is facing a significant change this month. The iconic brand, long synonymous with the Cape Cod region, will see its Hyannis production facility close as part of a corporate restructuring effort.
Owned by Campbell’s Company since a $4.87 billion acquisition in 2018, the Hyannis plant-Campbell’s smallest potato chip operation-has been producing the brand’s signature kettle-cooked chips since 1985. The planned shutdown will impact 49 employees and has ignited strong reactions from loyal customers, many of whom are threatening to boycott the brand.
Elizabeth Duggan, president of Campbell’s Snacks, explained the decision as part of a strategic move to optimize operations and support long-term growth. “This difficult decision reflects a careful assessment of our business needs to strengthen our operations and position our Snacks business for long-term growth,” she said. Duggan also assured that Campbell’s will continue to honor the brand’s heritage and invest locally to support future food innovators on Cape Cod.
Campbell’s has committed to providing affected workers with separation benefits, job placement assistance, and guidance on accessing state support programs.
While the Hyannis facility represents only 4% of Cape Cod Chips’ annual production-now shifted to plants in Wisconsin, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania-the closure has struck a nerve among Cape Cod residents and fans of the brand. Social media buzzed with disappointment following the announcement, with many expressing sadness and frustration over the loss of a hometown staple.
Comments ranged from vows to stop buying the chips to nostalgic reflections on the plant’s presence. One user lamented, “They were bought by Campbell Soup; so sad!
I’ll never buy their chips again.” Another recalled the sensory experience of passing the factory: “I’ll miss driving by and smelling the potato chips being made.”
Others voiced a sense of injustice about a local business losing its roots, with one stating, “It should be a crime! Homegrown businesses should be granted HOME.”
As Cape Cod Chips prepares to move production off the Cape, the community grapples with the end of an era for a brand that has long been a source of regional pride.